Warts: The Basics

Warts Overview

Warts Overview

Warts, or verrucae (singular: verruca), are benign (noncancerous) growths on the skin or mucous membranes that cause cosmetic problems as well as pain and discomfort. They are seen on people of all ages but most commonly appear in children and teenagers.

The incubation period of a wart is 2 to 9 months following infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV), during which time an excessive proliferation of skin growth slowly develops. Fortunately, more than 50 percent of them disappear on their own within two years.